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BMW and Mini getting GoPro integration

The small, high-quality and relatively inexpensive GoPro camera has been revolutionary for Internet video, especially of cars. Imagine how much awesomeness and hilarity we would have missed without them. Finding ways to integrate the cams into performance cars is becoming increasingly popular among automakers, as well. For example, the 2015 Chevrolet Corvette has its Performance Data Recorder, and Volkswagen is giving GoPros to early buyers of the 2015 GTI. BMW Group is going straight to the source for its rendition, though, with a new app that allows drivers to control a GoPro from inside of some BMW and Mini vehicles.
In July, owners with 2012 or later models equipped with BMW Apps or Mini Connected can download the new app. There are a few hurdles to jump over, though. Not only do users need a model with the infotainment system, a WiFi-equipped GoPro camera is also required. The app also must be installed on an iPhone connected to the vehicle.
Once all of those stipulations are met, the app can configure and control the GoPro through iDrive and display a nearly live image on the infotainment system. Menus are simplified on-screen but still allow users to select among six camera modes, aim it and start and stop recording. While filming, it shows recording time, battery life and signal strength. While BMW's approach isn't quite as nicely integrated as the Corvette's solution, it's interesting to see automakers working to make filming easier. Scroll down to read the full announcement.

2021 Mini Countryman shows off its fresh face

The 2021 Mini Countryman has been spied once again, and it has shed some of its camouflage. We get a really good look at what appears to be the base Countryman's new front and rear fascias, updated taillights and interior. Otherwise, the little crossover is mostly unchanged. Up front, the bumper changes from three large grille openings to one standard one, and it gets the same slats as the grille between the headlights. On either side are big, round fog lights, which are themselves flanked by openings that probably create wind curtains around the wheels. Looking at the headlights, they have new internals with more squared-off projector surrounds. We also get some good looks at the John Cooper Works model. The shots of it at the Nurburgring give us a good look at the front, which looks generally unchanged with the same front bumper as the current car, but possibly with a new grille and headlight design. At the back, the car reveals new Union Jack taillights similar to those introduced on the Mini Hardtop and Clubman. Another photo shows what seems to be a John Cooper Works Countryman with part of a cloth cover lifted. This shows the rear bumper is mostly the same, but it gets a new mesh grille pattern over the rear diffuser area. Finally, we get a look at the interior. Most of it is the same, but the instrument cluster loses the analog dial of the current model. In its place is the oval-shaped cluster from the Mini Cooper SE electric car, which likely combines analog dials on either side with a screen nestled between. These changes are all relatively minor, and seem to be production ready. As such, we would expect the changes to be introduced for the 2021 model year. The reveal could be later this year. Of course, it's also possible the changes could be pushed back in the wake of the coronavirus crisis. Related Video:

JCW Tuning Kit comes to Mini Countryman and Clubman

Mini devoted one line in the middle of its SEMA press release to the limited-edition Ice Blue Cooper S Hardtop on show at SEMA. We'll give it a few more lines: the Ice Blue hue hasn't been available since 2013, and Mini's being coy about how long the color will hang around. Available on two-door Cooper models, the Ice Blue package adds optional features beyond color, like custom wheel caps and Mini Connected, and adds a few thousand dollars to the MSRP depending on which Cooper you start with. Ready for the big Mini news? The John Cooper Works Tuning Kit will soon be available for Cooper S and Cooper S ALL4 Countryman and Clubman; before now, the kit could only be had for the Cooper S hardtop and convertible. The kit juices horsepower up to 208 hp from 189 hp, and throws in another 14 pound-feet of torque to top out at 221 lb-ft. The stainless-steel exhaust reduces exhaust gas back pressure, and can be controlled via Bluetooth for Sport or Sport+ auditory response. Sport, we're told, is safe for any road, while Sport+ makes a track-only kind of cacophony. The back-end growl gets piped through either chrome or carbon fiber tailpipes. The JCW Tuning Kit goes on sale in January 2018 for $1,950, and can be installed at any Mini dealer. Related Video: Featured Gallery Mini Ice Blue Cooper S Hardtop View 10 Photos Related Gallery Mini John Cooper Works Tuning Kit Aftermarket SEMA Show MINI Coupe Performance mini clubman mini cooper s jcw